Man jailed for attempted murder

A man from the Thames Valley's been jailed for life for attempted murder after shooting his wife.

A man from the Thames Valley's been jailed for life for attempted murder after shooting his wife.

Tracy Dunne suffered serious head injuries after the shooting at their home on New Year's Day.

30 year old Jamie Dunne of Ian Mikardo Way in Caversham had previously admitted possessing a shortened shotgun, criminal damage, possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and unlawful wounding.

The 30 year old was convicted of attempted murder after a trial at Reading Crown Court in June and was sentenced on Monday 27th September 2010.

Det Con Jim Howden, from Reading CID, who led the investigation, said: “This was clearly a very serious and senseless act, carried out in front of a young child. The incident resulted in both serious physical injuries and long-term emotional trauma to Mrs Dunne. This sentence cannot undo the suffering caused by Mr Dunne to his wife over many years through his alcoholism and behaviour towards her. However, I hope she will now be able to start a new life with her son, knowing that justice has been done.

“I would like to thank everyone who was involved in the investigation. The success of this prosecution is down to a combination of factors including a thorough investigation, courage and support from witnesses at the scene and throughout the enquiry, and invaluable contributions from supporting professionals.

“It is inevitable that having an illegal firearm to hand will ultimately end in disaster for an individual and the wider community. Illegal firearms have no place in our society and we will continue to work hard to ensure that those who possess them know how seriously the police take such offences.”